Toxic air grips Delhi-NCR as AQI crosses 450, temperatures set to drop further from December 25

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Air pollution in the national capital Delhi and the adjoining NCR region has once again reached alarming levels. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) shows that the Air Quality Index in most parts of Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad has crossed 400, placing it in the “severe” category.

In Ghaziabad, Vasundhara recorded an AQI of 460, while Indirapuram stood at 412, Loni at 401 and Sanjay Nagar at 387. The situation in Noida also remained critical, with AQI levels of 460 in Sector-1, 429 in Sector-116, 419 in Sector-125 and 398 in Sector-62.

Delhi witnessed even worse conditions. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 468, Nehru Nagar 457, Okhla Phase-2 455, RK Puram 446, Punjabi Bagh 441, Patparganj 439 and Ashok Vihar 443. Chandni Chowk reported 428, Bawana 427, DTU 420, Pusa 417 and Alipur 407. Air quality across nearly all monitoring stations remained unfit for breathing.

According to the IMD, minimum temperatures are likely to drop further from December 25. On December 23, the maximum temperature was 22 degrees Celsius and the minimum was 10 degrees. The minimum temperature is expected to fall to between 7 and 9 degrees Celsius on December 24 and 25. Light to moderate fog during morning and night hours may worsen pollution levels further.

Hospitals across Delhi-NCR have reported a sharp rise in patients suffering from breathing problems, asthma, allergies and eye irritation. Doctors say OPD cases related to pollution have increased by nearly 50 percent, with children, the elderly and those with pre-existing illnesses being the most affected.

In view of the situation, GRAP-4 restrictions remain in force across Delhi-NCR. These include a complete ban on the entry of vehicles below BS-6 standards in Delhi, suspension of construction activities, and the implementation of online or hybrid classes in schools. Despite these measures, no significant improvement in air quality has been observed.

Experts believe that cold weather, fog, low wind speed and local pollution sources are reducing the chances of immediate relief. Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, use masks and seek medical attention promptly if any health symptoms appear.